Paterson Museum Natural Pearl Display

PATERSON, NJ - The Paterson Museum is inviting history enthusiasts to explore one of New Jersey’s most fascinating stories of ambition and allure with its upcoming virtual program, Pearl Mania: The Paterson Gem Rush of 1857. Set to take place on Wednesday, November 20, at 2 p.m. on Zoom, this event will reveal the history behind America’s first gem rush, which occurred right in Northern New Jersey.

In this live presentation, Museum Curator Heather Garside will delve into the unusual phenomenon that drew attention from across the country and attracted thousands to Passaic County, all in pursuit of fortune. Attendees will be introduced to a colorful cast of characters, including banker J.P. Morgan, jeweler Charles Lewis Tiffany, and Empress Eugénie Bonaparte. The program promises surprising tales of fortune, folly, and a pearl that, astonishingly, ended up cooked rather than polished.

Natural Pearl Display Paterson Museum

Garside aims to bring this captivating history to life, illustrating how a chance discovery by a local carpenter sparked a rush that rivaled the gold fever of the West, igniting dreams of wealth and fame in the most unlikely of places.

For more information on Pearl Mania: The Paterson Gem Rush of 1857 or to register for the Zoom link, email hgarside@patersonnj.gov.

By Gabriella Dragone Published November 7, 2024 at 6:07 PM

SOURCE: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/wayne/sections/passaic-county-news/articles/paterson-museum-brings-history-to-life-with-pearl-mania-the-paterson-gem-rush-of-1857-virtual-event-2